Butler Residents Debating Whether To Disbanded Police Department

Michael Cosgrove

The Village of Butler Board keeps police department, despite recent racist and sexist remarks, including frequent porno watching by officers and former chief, a report released by the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department confirmed.

By H. Nelson Goodson

June 19, 2013

Butler, WI - On Tuesday, the Village of Butler Board of Trustees met to hear residents complaints about the recent porno watching scandal by their police department while on duty. The 365-page released by the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department revealed that four officers and their former Police Chief Michael Cosgrove engaged in "college frat house" behavior while on duty and with Cosgrove's leadership, the department "was permeated with elements of racism and pornography."

Cosgrove led the department by "fear and intimidation...derogatory and offensive" remarks toward officers and staff. One officer allegedly exposed his penis at the department and Chief Cosgrove loosely used the "n" word in frequent burst outs with personnel, the report revealed. 

One officer was placed on administrative paid leave and the other officers were disciplined for misconduct, but no criminal charges have been filed yet by the Waukesha County District Attorney's Office, which is reviewing the report.

The officers involved were identified as Joe Fus, Rick Napierala and Chad Rahn. A supervisor, Lieutenant Brian Pergande was also disciplined. 

Lieutenant Dave Wentlandt was the only supervisor cleared of any wrong doing and was recommended to replace Cosgrove who retired in March 10, after 33 years on the job. In 2005, Cosgrove became Chief of Police.

Cosgrove did not get a performance review by the Butler Board of Trustees for the last 20 years, as a contract clause had required it done periodically, the Waukesha County Sheriff's report indicated. He was placed on administrative leave on February 20.